New York Knicks

After opening in a strong fashion against the Milwaukee Bucks on the road, the New York Knicks put up a stinker against the Hawks at MSG.

New York Knicks 101 (1-1)
Atlanta Hawks 112 (1-1)
Full Game Box Score
Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

By Robby Sabo

The New York Knicks, coming off an impressive road victory to open the 2015-16 NBA season in Milwaukee last night, had one serious test tonight at Madison Square Garden.

The Atlanta Hawks were in town.

The Hawks, the team who shocked The Association last season with a 60-22 record – best in the East and only topped by the champion Golden State Warriors – were that team Carmelo Anthony’s gang needed to deal with to open up their home season.

Right from opening tip, it was obvious this newly-formed squad wasn’t ready for such a test. The “Eastern Spurs” knocked the Knicks down several pegs tonight with a convincing 112-101 victory.

This just wasn’t a competitive game from the get-go. Atlanta outplayed New York in every aspect of the game. Their defense was tougher, their passing was more spot on, and their shooting was lights out.

The Hawks shot 50.6 percent from the floor as opposed to the Knicks paltry 40.9 percent mark. Mike Budenholzer’s squad showed Derek Fisher’s group that their team philosophies are still worlds apart.

Melo led the Knicks with 25 points, though he just shot 10-of-27 from the floor. Robin Lopez collected 18-and-4, while Kyle O’Quinn continued his impressive start to the season snaring a double-double.

Atlanta’s high-man was the shifty Jeff Teague (23), with Al Horford right on his heels (21).

The major positive for the Knicks came in the form of 20-year old rookie Kristaps Porzingis. Zinger – as he’s starting to be known as – once again showed flashes of why he was so highly-touted this past summer.

The way the kid can move that 7’3” frame reminds some of us – namely Bryan Pol of Elite Sports NY – as a gazelle.

Next up for the Knickerbockers will be the Wizards in Washington on Saturday (Halloween) night.

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Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media. Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com